Legislators returned to Raleigh for the start of the 2015 Legislative Session. On Wednesday, January 14th, all legislators were sworn into office with their families present. Officers were elected for House and Senate leadership. Among the top, the House elected Tim Moore (R-Cleveland) as the Speaker of the House; replacing Thom Tillis who won his race for the US Senate. The Senate elected Phil Berger (R- Guilford, Rockingham) as President Pro Tempore. After the ceremonies today, both the House and the Senate are adjourned until Wednesday, January 28th when they will return to Raleigh to work.

With new legislators comes new committees. The House has developed two new committees. One on Children, Youth, and Families and another on Aging. Additionally, they separated the Education Committee into three committees- public schools (K12), Community Colleges, and the University of North Carolina System. The Senate created a new Workforce Development Committee. NASW-NC will continue to monitor committee assignments in the coming weeks to begin working with legislators on specific committees.

Among some of the top priorities this legislative session, legislators will be balancing a state budget with less revenue coming into our state and working towards reforming Medicaid. As a member benefit, NASW-NC will be present for the action by tracking, lobbying legislators, and informing members of all bills and action relevant to the social work profession.

As you prepare for the 2015 Legislative Session, be sure to check out the NC General Assembly Website to find out daily information on legislative committees and who represents you! This website is a valuable resource to help you navigate the legislative process!